phototaxis
Steel, Glass, Neon, Argon, Acrylic
4 ft x 4 ft x 7 ft | 121 cm x 121 cm x 213 cm
2023
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pho·to·tax·is
/ˌfōdōˈtaksəs/
noun: BIOLOGY
the movement of an organism in response to light
phototaxis has the appearance of a classic bug zapper, with a grid frame and trapezoidal prism body. The main material used is steel, primed to patina over time.
Atop the piece sits a mirrored glass sphere, reflecting the environment and giving observers another way to take in their surroundings.
Inside the structure is a chandelier of blown glass cages and Neon tubes. The piece has an element that shows it has a life of its own with a “zapping” feature, achieved with Argon filled crackle tubes.
Neon has a unique ability to make people stop in their tracks and draw them in. There is a magnetism in its light.
My goal is to perpetuate amazement and wonder through a familiar object, reimagined.
phototaxis reminds us that we are but a small slice in the planet’s grand wheel of life, and not unlike its many other inhabitants.
ABOUT THE PROCESS
Phototaxis is a series // concept I have been experimenting with since in school at ASU, and have a goal to create a version at monumental scale.
After receiving the INFLUX art grant, I thought it would be a great opportunity to create a version as the maquette for this future project.
"phototaxis" was built from January - March of 2023 and is on long term display in Avondale, AZ at new development project THE BLVD.
It is located on the SW corner of the new parking garage.On View > 114th Avenue & Dale Earnhardt Drive
THANK YOU : INFLUX CYCLE 10 ART GRANT FUNDING BY THE CITY OF AVONDALE
Special Thanks : Deann Franklin, Rob Larson, Michael Butzine, Cody Cloud, Cody Hunt, & Charlie Vierhout
